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Author Biography

Josephine grew up in London, England. She was a full-time student at the Corona Academy theatre school and as a child actress appeared in several television plays and films. She has lived in several countries, including France, Switzerland and Bermuda. In 1996 she moved to Los Angeles where she pursued her career as a voice-over actress. She performed character voices for Nickelodeon, Disney and Dreamworks. Jo has also narrated more than seventy audio books for which she has received ten "Earphones" awards, an Audie award for Best Audio drama (Sherlock Holmes, directed by Yuri Rasovsky) and one Audie nomination. In 2002 Publishers weekly voted her Best Female Narrator. "Hotey" is her first book.

Book Review

Reviewed by Melinda Hills for Readers' Favorite

Hotey by Josephine Bailey is a wonderfully told story of a young donkey who has to find his way in the world. After leaving the herd while following a dream, Hotey learns many lessons that life has to offer - the good and the bad. Captured in a wild horse round-up, Hotey is taken care of by a loving man. Unfortunate circumstances change their lives but they move on and make the most of their positive qualities. Hotey remembers the teachings of the Elders and strives to be a good, responsible donkey and becomes the leader of a small group of abandoned animals. They depend on him and he tries to live up to the trust they place in him, helping each to find happiness. Throughout the course of events, Hotey wonders what the meaning of his life is and how he can be happy. By following his heart, he gets on the right path.

A beautiful tale of the ups and downs of life, Hotey is a masterpiece of subtle instruction in living a positive existence. Simple to read and immensely interesting in the details of life in the ‘Old West’, Hotey provides inspiration to anyone trying to find their purpose and place in the world. The story is encouraging even while it acknowledges that life is not always fair or happy; and clearly demonstrates that a positive attitude and effort are needed to make appropriate decisions. It is a story highlighting the virtues of personal responsibility and caring for others that is perfect for today’s world. Everyone can benefit from the lesson of Hotey and his group of friends.

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Josephine Bailey

Thank you, Melinda Hills, for this wonderful, intelligent review of Hotey. I am encouraged and touched by your thoughtful and insightful words. One of the most important concerns for an author, especially a new writer, is that the reader will understand, will "get" the story's meaning. Ms. Hills assessment captured perfectly the essence of Hotey.

Simon Duringer

Hotey is an incredible novel, suitable for adults and children alike. Josephine Bailey has utilised every moment of her award winning narration experience and knowledge to create this well structured, wonderfully written and thought provoking tale that delivers every possible emotion to the reader.

Whilst great as an easy read, the more discerning reader will not be disappointed either. For me, it ranks right up there with George Orwell's "Animal Farm" and Richard Adams "Watership Down" for its depth of meaning. I can't wait for it to get spotted by Hollywood as, if it's left in its current form, I think it would be great as an animation feature.

Deacon James Stagg

We were so impressed with this book that we purchased extra copies for our family members and grade-school library. Our great grandson in Second Grade, loves Hotey and identifies with some of his difficult challenges.

We would recommend this book for all ages (up to ours, which is OLD). In many ways, it can be compared favorably to the classic Black Beauty book, though not as long.

Nancy Pugh

Hotey is a wonderful tale of discovery, friendship, and love. My 11 y.o. granddaughter loved it - and so did I. Destined to become a classic, Hotey is a small donkey that loses himself from his herd, gets scooped up by cowboys, and finds himself among strangers. He has adventures. He makes new friends. He learns lessons about loyalty and friendship, eventually findind his way back to his own herd.

Gordon Brice

Don't let the storyline mislead you. The epic adventures experienced by Hotey and his friends, will have you turning page after page, wondering how the story will end.....but, believe me when I say that you will not want it to end. What this group of friends experience during their travels, will call on all the emotions of the reader. Josephine Bailey has a surefire hit on her hands, which is certainly worthy of a sequel and must not be ignored by moviemakers worldwide. Don't miss the opportunity to gift this wonderful book to someone you love, or, why not buy it for yourself. Either way, it will not be a disappointment.

Jeremy Smith

Hotey is a classic novel that I just read. It is about how Hotey, the donkey, gets captured by a group of cowboys and is separated from his herd. He meets some new friends, saves some new donkey's lives, and how Hotey learns to love humans. This page is so suspenseful that you will be page turning for a good couple hours. Hotey is a classic American novel that will be treasured for life.

Brock Laggini

Hotey was an outstanding novel. It inspired me to push above and beyond just like Hotey did throughout his entire adventure back to his herd. I liked the chapter when in order to escape the farm he had to open the gate. Hotey wished he was a horse so he could have a long neck and easily open the gate, but after almost giving up he remembered that he could never be a horse, so he could be the best donkey out there. After thinking this Hotey used his head to easily open the gate. Hotey's adventure truly turned him into a leader. I have great respect for this novel

Anne Hudson

So many life lessons for young people in this book! Should be required reading.

Samuel D. SMithyman, Pjh.

A great story dealing with life's journey for all ages. Like the fables of Aesop, I know personally that the story the book tells appeals to and is appreciated by readers 12 to 90, male and female. It touches archetypal truths to which we all resonate.

Jocelyn Hayes

Hotey is an inspirational book that inspired me to persevere and never give up no matter what. This book had me turning pages and I didn't want to stop. I enjoyed it a lot and hope that Josephine Bailey will make a second one. Hotey is a great story with a great message.

Cassandra Bower

Hotey was a wonderful novel that dealt with a lot of perseverance. The young donkey traveled a lot just to get where he loved. He could have gave up, but he didn't. The book was amazing and I never wanted to put it down. I loved this novel by Josephine Bailey and I hope she writes other books just as good as this one.

Joann Liuzzo

As an English teacher for over 25 years, I have read many YA novels. Hotey remains my absolute favorite and the only novel that I purchased myself in order to ensure that my students would be able to read and enjoy immediately. It is a story of a young "man" going on a journey of discovery and maturation that takes the reader on a journey right along with him. Hotey, our hero, and his "family" of Sancho, Rocket, Michael and the unforgettable mine donkeys will touch both your heart and soul as you travel along with them through life with all of its ups and downs. I laughed and cried through it all, and could not put it down. It has become a part of my teaching and my life as it urged me to begin working with rescued donkeys and horses. This novel should be a "must read" for all animal lovers and adventure lovers, too.